Main Page

Positive Feedback:
  • Graphics – great choice of images, and nice job incorporating them into the page.
  • Navigation – good job adding links to your blogs and to your other wiki pages.
  • Resource list – nice variety of sources and interfaces (some video, some websites). The annotations are succinct and helpful.
  • Intro paragraphs – both provide adequate and accurate information about the what and the why. They are well-written and easy to read.

Suggested Improvements:
  • Why use it paragraph – add more information about the benefits. This is stated in the bullet list below (which should have punctuation, by the way), but because you chose to give it a subheading, I read it like it was a whole new thought, rather than a continuation of the previous thought.
  • I know you were concerned about being evaluated on your contributions, but you really didn’t need to tag everything (such as the images, the links to your blogs, etc.)…



Brainstorming

Positive Feedback:
  • Text – I like how you TEACH readers about the interfaces while presenting your actual mind maps. Very cool!
  • Graphics – the Wordle is lovely…did you create it from scratch or find it on the web? Just curious…either answer is fine!
  • Mind maps – they clearly show the process you went through to come up with your ideas.

Suggested Improvements:
  • Mind maps – shrink the size so they fit on the page without scrolling, then add a hyperlink to a larger version so when people click on it they can see it in greater detail. You can’t guarantee people will realize there is a scroll button (let alone use it).



Viral Blood…
Again, you need to create smaller images so we don’t have to scroll – it was difficult for me to read your title because “Plague” didn’t fit on the page.

Description – I love how you worded this like a WebQuest, putting the students into the scenario for the project. Your overview information is very specific and the students will quickly understand what you are asking of them. However, you fail to mention the age group this project is intended for (it appears later, but should also be stated from the outset) and you need to explicitly state that the students will be creating a wiki report.

Product – The first sentence is a fragment, and doesn’t clearly state the product to be created. Again, we’re dancing around stating that the kids are making a wiki, but you need to make this crystal clear. Also, watch for typos (problem solving skillS, not skill, for example).

Curriculum – It is good to include qualifying information that explains how this project meets the standards, but you also need to cite the SPECIFIC standards addressed. There should be information about science (blood typing), Language Arts (journal writing in wiki form), Technology (tools and skills used), and possibly others. Look at PLN3’s “Standards Met” section for an example of what should be provided.

DQ – The question is strong, but can’t be answered based on your description of the project. You asked the students to list traits and find commonalities, but you need to explore ways to “heal” the blood before they can answer this question. If you planned such activities, they should be included in the project description and outcomes.

Tech Integration – It’s true kids will use technology for research and information input, but could they possibly use other forms of technology? How about microscopes (yes, they are technology pieces too), slides, films, etc.? Will the students be engaged in some sort of reflection activity to answer the driving question? If so, perhaps technology will play a role. Try to think creatively about all the ways technology can help you teach this unit, then incorporate them!

Bonus Page – Thank you for including this page, which helps to illustrate your vision for the project. While not required, it is greatly appreciated! Did you realize the “A” blood link isn’t working?



Summary

Your wiki is a success! You consistently applied design and formatting choices to all pages. Your graphics are stunning. Your pages are easy to read and navigate. The project is very engaging and will capture the interest of your students. Consider adding a culminating activity that answers your driving question and brings everything into focus. Also, look at your use of technology and try to think “outside of the box” – technology can do so much more than just be a source of information! Great job on this assignment!

smile.jpgMrs. Langston